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Clarence Frogman Henry
Famed for his 1956 hit "Ain't Got No Home" and his signature frog-like vocals, he toured with icons like The Beatles and Fats Domino, leaving a lasting mark on the rich musical heritage of New Orleans music.
MUSIC Clarence "Frogman" Henry's music blends New Orleans R&B, blues, and swamp pop with a playful, danceable groove. Known for his smooth vocals, lively piano, and signature frog-like croak, his sound captures the soulful, feel-good spirit of Louisiana.
ERA In Frogman Henry’s era—the 1950s and 60s—New Orleans was a hotbed of musical innovation, where jazz, R&B, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll collided. The city’s clubs and dance halls pulsed with the sounds of Fats Domino, Professor Longhair, and a new wave of rhythm-driven, horn-filled music. The streets of the French Quarter and neighborhoods like Treme were alive with parades, second-line rhythms, and a culture that celebrated music as a way of life. It was a golden age for New Orleans R&B, shaping the future of American popular music.
GREATEST HITS "Ain’t Got No Home" (1956) – His signature song, featuring his famous frog-like and high-pitched vocals. "(I Don't Know Why) But I Do" (1961) – A smooth, heartfelt R&B ballad that became his biggest commercial hit. "You Always Hurt the One You Love" (1961) – A soulful cover of the classic tune, showcasing his rich, emotive vocals. "Lonely Street" (1962) – A bluesy, melancholic track that highlights his storytelling style. "Come On and Dance" (1964) – A lively, upbeat R&B groove capturing the essence of New Orleans party music.
CONTEMPORARIES Fats Domino – A fellow New Orleans R&B legend, known for hits like "Blueberry Hill" and "Ain’t That a Shame." Professor Longhair – A pioneering pianist whose unique style influenced the New Orleans sound. Smiley Lewis – An early R&B star who recorded "I Hear You Knocking" and inspired many later artists. Lloyd Price – Known for hits like "Lawdy Miss Clawdy," blending R&B with early rock ‘n’ roll. Huey "Piano" Smith – A boogie-woogie and R&B pianist famous for "Rockin’ Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu." Allen Toussaint – A key songwriter and producer shaping the New Orleans R&B scene. Irma Thomas – The “Soul Queen of New Orleans,” known for deep, emotional R&B ballads.
FUN FACTS Clarence "Frogman" Henry earned his famous nickname from his 1956 hit "Ain’t Got No Home," where he showcased his signature frog-like croaky voice. A true New Orleans talent, he started playing piano at age eight, inspired by legends like Fats Domino and Professor Longhair. His biggest hit, "(I Don't Know Why) But I Do," almost went unnoticed as a B-side but became a classic, later featured in Forrest Gump (1994). In 1964, he opened for The Beatles on their U.S. tour, bringing his joyful R&B sound to massive audiences. Known for his playful stage presence, he even performed in a frog costume at times! Despite fame, he remained a dedicated New Orleans performer, keeping the city's rhythm and blues spirit alive for decades.
HALLS OF FAME Clarence "Frogman" Henry has been honored with numerous accolades for his contributions to music. He was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2007 and the Louisiana Hall of Fame in 1995, recognizing his impact on the state’s musical heritage. His pioneering work in R&B also earned him a place in the Rockabilly Hall of Fame and a Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award in 2003. Additionally, he received the Living Legend Award in 2002, the New Orleans Big Easy Entertainment Award, and the Armstrong Cultural Ambassador to New Orleans Award for his role in preserving the city’s rich musical traditions. These honors cement his legacy as a true icon of New Orleans rhythm and blues.
FAMILY Clarence "Frogman" Henry was married seven times. He had ten children and over 40 grandchildren. He married the same woman twice.
BOURBON STREET Clarence "Frogman" Henry became a fixture on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, performing regularly in clubs throughout the French Quarter for decades. After his national chart success in the late 1960s, he embraced the city's thriving live music scene, playing for tourists and locals who wanted an authentic taste of New Orleans R&B. He performed at well-known venues like The Ivanhoe, The 544 Club, and Crazy Shirley’s, often playing extended residencies that lasted for years. His sets were filled with his classic hits, rollicking piano playing, and a warm, engaging stage presence that made him a local favorite. Even as he got older, he continued to perform on Bourbon Street well into the 1990s, keeping the New Orleans rhythm and blues tradition alive.
THE BEATLES Clarence "Frogman" Henry toured with The Beatles in 1964 as an opening act during their first U.S. tour. He was chosen because of his energetic New Orleans rhythm and blues style, which fit well with the rock and roll wave The Beatles were riding. At the time, he was already a well-known performer with hits like "(I Don't Know Why) But I Do" and "Ain’t Got No Home," making him a recognizable name to American audiences. Henry's lively stage presence and ability to engage crowds made him a great choice for warming up stadiums full of excited Beatles fans. Touring with The Beatles gave him massive exposure, introducing his music to a younger, international audience.
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A legend among legends
Fats Domino, Charles Brown and Clarence "Frogman" Henry, three piano legends of New Orleans Rhythm'n Blues photographed by equally legendary New Orleans visual artist Syndey Byrd. Photo Courtesy of Clarence Henry.
Clarence "Frogman" Henry on Spotify
His recordings have made it to the hearts and homes of millions. Enjoy.